Shared custody less traumatic for kids
I’m recently divorced. Any advice on making shared custody less traumatic for my kids?
answer:
Here’s what I suggest:
1 Give everyone time to adjust to this arrangement. Shared custody will not be easy.
2 Avoid the biggest mistake dads make: trying to outdo Mom by spoiling your kids in an effort to buy their love.
3 Be consistent with discipline. The kids must understand your house rules and the values they’re based upon. Also, do not criticize how your ex runs her house.
4 Keep your promises: Maintain a regular visitation schedule and arrange frequent phone contact. When you are with the kids, don’t burden them with your anger and depression about the divorce. Instead, model openness by expressing sadness, then ask how they are doing.
5 Create a “home base” in your house for each child—a room, a corner, a bookshelf, some physical spot that’s his or hers alone. 6 Capitalize on shared interests such as hobbies, but also leave room to just hang out and spend time alone with each child.